AUGUSTA RAPTORS CODE OF CONDUCT

Team sports should be fun for not just the players but also the parents, relatives and everyone involved. However, we must remember that we are not only responsible for representing ourselves but also our team and the city of Augusta. It is critical that everyone associated with an Augusta Raptors team conducts themselves in a manner that is appropriate at all times. It is imperative that we respect the integrity of the Augusta Raptors name anytime we are somewhere representing the team. Violation of one of these rules can lead to discipline, missed playing time or games and even removal from the team. Please understand that this includes parent behavior as well.

PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT1) Allow the coach to coach, the referee to officiate and most importantly allow your child to play the game.

2) Parents should never coach from the side during games or at training. When you hand over your child to the coach, the coach is in charge. Whether you agree or disagree, the coach is the decision maker.

3) Parents should never criticize players on the team. Let the coaches do their work. If you criticize it may cause confusion and erode the player’s confidence.

4) Do not criticize the coach to your child or any other parents. If you are not happy with the coach, you should raise the issue with the coach. If the issue is not resolved then there are plenty of other teams and coaches.

5) Make participation for your child, and others, a positive experience.

6) Remember that a child is easily affected by outside influences.

7) Be supportive and applaud good plays by your team.

8) Accept the results of each game and encourage your child to be gracious in victory and use defeat as an opportunity to concentrate on improvements.

9) Be your child’s best fan and support them unconditionally. Don’t treat them differently when they perform below a standard but also keep a level head when they have an outstanding game.

10) Encourage your child to speak with the coach. Let them claim ownership and responsibility of all aspects of the game.

11) Help your child focus on performance rather than the result.

12) Never criticize the opponents, their parents, coaches or the referee.

13) Do not question the referee or their judgment. They are a symbol of fair play, integrity and sportsmanship.

14) Establish the right priorities for your child, focus on schoolwork, relationships and other aspects of life as well. Monitor your child. Make sure that they are handling the stress and that they are happy.

PLAYER CODE OF CONDUCT1) Demonstrate fair play and good sportsmanship at every practice, game and tournament. Encourage fair play and good sportsmanship from other players, coaches, officials, and parents.

2) Attend every practice and game that you possibly can, and notify the coach if you cannot make a practice or game.

3) Come to practices and games on time and ready to learn. Accept responsibility for bringing any equipment necessary for practice (ball, cleats, shin guards, water,) and games (cleats, shin guards, water and team uniform).

4) Follow coaching direction and do not be disruptive during practice or games.

5) Treat other players, coaches, officials, and fans with respect regardless of race, sex, or ability, and expect to be treated accordingly.

6) Respect the authority of the referee, even though you may sometimes disagree with the call.

7) Conduct yourself with honor, dignity and treat other players as you would like to be treated. Remember at all times that we are representing our team and the city of Augusta.

8) Understand that poor behavior during practices, games, or tournaments may result in lost playing time and expulsion from the team.

9) Our goal is to help all players maximize their ability but we do not guarantee equal playing time in games. Understand that our intention is never to bring players into the club to NOT play them in games. We dedicate a large amount of time and resources to our practices which is where we feel players will hone their skills to be applied in games. Our focus goes into developing players so that everyone will ultimately contribute equally within games but all kids develop at a different pace. Our coaches put forth their best effort to put players in positions that will help their individual development but also to help the team see success. If players are ever concerned about playing time or desire to play particular positions we encourage them to talk with their coaches during practices so that a plan might be put into place to help them achieve those goals if possible.